DAFZA’s ‘Digital Intelligence Plan’ approved

H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chief Executive of Emirates Group and Chairman of Dubai Airport Freezone Authority, DAFZA, has approved DAFZA’s ‘Digital Intelligence Plan 2018-2020.

The plan is developed in line with digital transformation initiatives such as the Dubai Internet of Things Strategy (IOT) and the UAE Strategy for Artificial Intelligence, the first major initiative within the UAE Centennial 2071 project.

Developed in partnership with Deloitte Consulting LLC, the new plan is in line with both DAFZA’s ‘Strategic Plan 2017-2021’ and ‘DAFZA Innovation Strategy.’ Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed emphasised the importance of technological development and the adoption of modern technologies in various fields in supporting the transformation of Dubai into the smartest and happiest city in the world. He noted the role of the various institutions and entities in the Dubai in achieving the UAE leadership’s vision for modern technology and digital wealth as represented by the Dubai Internet of Things (IOT) strategy and the UAE Strategy for Artificial Intelligence which was launched in October 2017 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai.

Sheikh Ahmed also praised DAFZA’s pioneering role in improving services and establishing a creative, innovative and highly productive work environment which provides exceptional experiences for foreign investors as clearly reflected by the growth of Dubai’s GDP, adding that DAFZA has become a major economic development player in the emirate.

Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Director-General of DAFZA, noted the importance of the support of the leadership through which national strategies and initiatives for adopting the latest and most advanced technologies have been launched. "We are grateful to our leadership for always inspiring us to succeed and do our best. Through their support and encouragement, we have always been confident of our success and have surpassed the goals we have set to move forward," he continued.

"We look forward to turning DAFZA into an innovative, world-class freezone based on a scientific methodology and a clear vision for achieving ambitious goals and aspirations driven by advanced and future technologies. We aim to boost the development process and take a steady step towards shaping future in the UAE," Dr. Al Zarooni added.

To establish an integrated and sustainable digital system, DAFZA’s new strategy is based on three main areas, ‘Operational Model,’ ‘ICT Services,’ and ‘Technology Platform Revamp.’ DAFZA has also approved several initiatives for implementation from 2018 to 2020 and will update the organisational structure of its information and communications technology, ICT, management which will be launched under the name ‘Digital Intelligence Management’ to enhance internal partnerships and achieve digital sustainability.